Yamaha 2008 WR250X
In addition to the new R6 discussed a couple of days ago, Yamaha introduced three new dual purpose machines. We will start by discussing the 2008 WR250X — the supermoto built around a lightweight 250cc single.
The WR250X utilizes a newly designed fuel-injected single with four valves (two titanium intake valves and two steel exhaust valves) and double overhead cams. Yamaha demonstrates its belief in the street legal supermoto category by designing this all-new power plant and housing it in an all-new aluminum double-cradle frame.
The WR250X has fully adjustable 46mm forks and a single, linkage mounted rear shock. A single, huge 298mm disc brake is utilized up front, with 230mm single disc in back.
Will this bike be fun to ride? Frankly, I am salivating at the thought of this 280 lb. claimed dry weight (282 in California) single with 17 inch radial tires (110/70 in front and 140/70 in the back) ripping some of the tighter twisties here in Southern California.
A six-speed transmission should provide a decent top speed for highway travel connecting those twisty canyons to your home base.
The WR250X also features light weight head and tail lights, and a multi-function, enduro-style instrument panel with all of the basic functions, and then some.
The 2008 Yamaha WR250X should be available in January of next year at a U.S. MSRP of $5,999 in Team Yamaha Blue/White.
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Yamaha 2008 WR250R
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The 2008 WR250R appears to utilize the same engine as the WR250X discussed above, with similar suspension components, as well. The difference? The WR250R has larger wheels and tires (21 inch in front and 18 inch in the rear) and smaller, dirt bike-style brakes (250mm rotor in front and 230mm in the rear).
Obviously, the 2008 WR250R is aimed more directly at the off-road enthusiast who needs a street legal machine. Claimed dry weight is an equally impressive 276 pounds (278 in California). U.S. MSRP of the WR250R is $5,899, and scheduled availability here in the States is January of 2008.
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Yamaha 2008 XT250
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Finally, the 2008 XT250 will be available at the bargain basement price of $4,399 in white/black from September of 2007, and this is not a carry-over model.
The big news with the 2008 XT is a larger, 249cc motor, improved brakes and updated styling.
The semi-double-cradle steel frame is also redesigned for a claimed lighter, more nimble feeling machine with greater mass centralization. The fork is also new, and features 8.9 inches of travel. The new rear shock provides 7.1 inches of travel.
A new digital LCD instrument panel is claimed to remove lots of weight from the front end of the motorcycle, and contributes to the handling enhancements provided by the new chassis and suspension.
For additional details and specifications on all of these models, visit Yamaha’s web site here.
